Electronic Gambling Engagement and Psychosocial Outcomes Among University Students in Ibadan, Nigeria: A Theory of Planned Behavior Perspective

Background and Aims : The proliferation of electronic gambling in Nigeria presents a significant public health concern among youths facing economic adversity. This study applied the Theory of Planned Behavior to investigate the sociocognitive drivers and psychosocial impacts of electronic gambling among university students. Methods : A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected from 403 undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of Ibadan using stratified random sampling and a structured questionnaire. Analyses included descriptive statistics, scale reliability assessment, and binary logistic regression. Results : The lifetime prevalence of electronic gambling was 49.6%. Attitudes regarding financial utility, subjective norms involving peer approval, and perceived behavioral control were all significant predictors of gambling engagement (p < .001). Economic hardship was the strongest predictor in the model (OR = 3.06). Among participants who gambled, 50.9% reported increased stress and anxiety, 48.6% reported financial strain, and 42.6% reported negative academic impacts. Conclusions : Gambling among students is driven by economic necessity framed within sociocognitive pathways. Findings advocate for theory-informed interventions that address financial stressors and correct misperceptions about gambling.